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Hope Named Outstanding Employer

Submitted by Julie Huisingh on Wed, 2009-04-08 11:38

For the fourth consecutive year, Hope College has been named one of the "101 Best and Brightest Companies to Work For" in West Michigan.

The competition is a program of the Michigan Business and Professional Association (MBPA). Hope and the region's other 2009 winners will be recognized during the "West Michigan's 101 Best and Brightest Companies to Work For" annual human resources symposium and awards luncheon on Thursday, May 7, at the Pinnacle Center in Hudsonville.

Each company's entry was evaluated by an independent research firm. The nominated companies were assessed in categories including communication, community initiatives, compensation and benefits, diversity and multiculturalism, employee education and development, employee engagement and commitment, recognition and retention, recruitment and selection, and work-life balance.

The winners represent industries as diverse as the automotive, insurance, hospitality, communications and non-profit sectors. They were chosen on the basis of delivering exceptional human resources practices, according to Jennifer Kluge, who is the MBPA chief operating officer and a veteran human resources manager.

"The selection, recognition and awarding of West Michigan's 101 Best and Brightest Companies to Work For allows businesses to showcase their best practices and demonstrate why each of them would be an ideal place to work," Kluge said. "This year's winning companies represent high standards and are an example for other companies to emulate."

Based in Warren, the MBPA is the largest business organization of small to medium-sized businesses in Michigan, representing more than 20,000 members who employ more than 200,000 people. Members include attorneys, physicians, architects, accountants, construction companies, banks, retailers, wholesalers, manufacturers and the like. Member businesses receive numerous benefits, including free legal and financial consultations; discounted technology, automotive and office products; employee training and recruitment assistance; and competitive insurance rates. The MBPA is a sister association to the Michigan Food & Beverage Association (MFBA).

The "101 Best and Brightest Companies to Work For" are also presented annually Metro Detroit, Chicago and Canada in addition to in West Michigan.